Internet service providers in Zimbabwe have informed citizens of the country that the government has given a directive for the internet (which was earlier blocked) to be restored. However, all social media platforms remained blocked until further notice.
Earlier today, Econet, the leading telecoms provider in the country sent a message to all its subscribers after three days of blackout to relay the news.
"Dear valued customer, please be advised that the internet is back online under a directive that the Facebook, YouTube, WhatsApp, Twitter will remain closed until further notice. Any inconvenience is sincerely regretted," said the mobile service provider.
You will recall that Zimbabwe's government earlier in the week blocked internet and social media services as a result of protests that erupted following the news of a fuel hike in the country.
The violent protests which lasted for about three days recorded three deaths and police say they have over 600 persons in custody.
The government in the country announced on Saturday that there has been an increase in the price of fuel which was increased with more than 100 percent.
The increment in the price of fuel comes after increase in the price of goods which has continued to make the headlines; this sparked tension that resulted in citizens taking to the street to protest against government.
The protests which began on Monday is said to be the most violent protest in the country’s history since the 1998 food riots. Among people killed in the protests was a police officer.
The government, who on its part pointed to the opposition as perpetuators of the protest ordered the blocking of all internet and social media services in the country and a possible clampdown of opposition members. Reports say the order came from acting President Constantino Chiwenga.
The actions have received strong criticism from within and outside the country with many saying that the government is exhibiting tyranny and abusing the rights of its citizens to freedom of speech and information.
Critics also say that blocking the internet and social media in Zimbabwe has affected businesses and other sectors in a significant way, in addition to crippling communication in the country.
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